Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were killed while biking near their hometown in New Jersey, according to state police.
The hockey star and his sibling were fatally struck by a car Thursday night while they rode their bikes in Oldmans Township, not far from where the pair grew up in Salem County, authorities told Fox 29. The driver remained on the scene, police said.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the team said in a statement shared on X Friday morning.
“Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” it continued. “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
Nicknamed “Johnny Hockey,” Gaudreau was a standout player during his time at Boston College, where Matthew also played. His younger brother went on to compete for the Worcester Railers as well as the Reading Royals.
Gaudreau, who was 31 years old, played 11 seasons in the NHL, including nine with the Calgary Flames and his most recent two with the Blue Jackets. Over the course of his 763 games, he accumulated 243 goals and 743 total points, according to Sports Illustrated. His best season was in 2021-2022, when he recorded a career-high 115 points with the Flames.
“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could,” the team statement said.
“The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him,” it concluded. “Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.”